Welcome to the Pennsylvania Draft Horse and Mule AssociationWe strive to promote all facets and interests of the draft horse and mule industry in Pennsylvania.

For years, draft horses and mules were instrumental in the transportation of goods andthe farming of crops. With the innovation of gasoline-powered equipment, the numberof draft animals dropped rapidly; almost to extinction.

Members of the Pennsylvania Draft Horse & Mule Association have several different breedsincluding: Belgians, Clydesdales, Percherons, Shires, Suffolks, Spotted Drafts and Draft Mules.

Just a few photos below to show you how the draft horses can be and are used in todays world.

On the left, a 6 horse hitch of Belgian draft horses. Used here at a draft horse show in Harrisburg Pa.Most draft horse shows hitch from a single cart mare or geldings.Team Hitch in Mens and Ladies, Unicorn Hitch, 4 Horse Hitch, 6 Horse Hitch and 8 Horse Hitch.

On right, a team hitch of Belgians plowing a field to get ready for seeding new crops. Still today, draft horses are used in everyday farming in Lancaster and surrounding areas by the Amish.Those of us that own draft horses for pleasure also enjoy a day working the soil. This can be attended at many locations in PA. Mules are also used for showing and farming.

Draft horses are also used in commercial business such as hay rides, weddings, birthday parties, country rides, Christmas events, funerals and more.

The PA Draft Horse and Mule Association also hold events called Ride and Drives. A location is picked to hold the drives, which last a few hours followed by a meal.

DRAFT HORSE PULLSDraft horses are also used in pulling competitions. A team of horses is hitched to a sled with weights and pulled 27 feet 6 inches for a full pull. The team that pulls the heaviest weight wins the event.

LOGGINGDraft horses are still being used to log out woodlands.

Visit the navigation bar, above left, and click on your interests to see what we have to offer you.Contact us by e-mail if you have any questions.You can also contact our any of our directors listed for info.